Taylor Bruninga to Illinois St
Illinois State landed one of the hottest in-state recruits this season late Monday night! Illini Bluffs 2017 power forward Taylor Bruninga committed to the Missouri Valley program over several other mid-major offers. He told PHI why the Redbirds were his choice.
“I think the coaching staff and players was one of the big factors. I feel like the coaching staff really went out of their way and beyond during the recruiting process. The players are a great group of guys that I look forward to playing and being around. And I also believe that the style of play and Coach Muller’s plan for me really fits what I’m looking for.”
It has been a quick rise for Bruninga over the last year. He was an unknown prospect heading into last spring. He emerged on the radar after his play on the circuit for the Illinois Irish. He made huge jump in the rankings after backing up his spring with a strong July jumping up the rankings and then made the big leap to mid-major status after an incredible senior season.
He shot the ball well which is his biggest asset, but what impressed us was his ability to shot fake and go around his guy along with fighting on the interior. Playing against small school central Illinois competition Bruninga absolutely dominated going for 35+ points and 15+ rebounds on a semi nightly basis. He finished in the top 5 for Mr. Basketball.
Bruninga is a prospect that can space the floor with his perimeter shot. Also runs the court extremely well and is a plus athlete. Has improved his post-game during the high school season. He ranks as the #2 power forward and #23 overall prospect in the state.